Japanese Inn

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Summary: Japanese Inn
Review: I think this book is excellent if you are looking for a historical representation of Japan. However, I am more interested in daily life through the view point of an average Japanese citizen. This book provided more historical facts than ideas about what life was really like in a Japanese Inn during that time period.

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Summary: Great introduction to Japanese History
Review: Oliver Statler`s book Japanese Inn is a semi-fictional account of the goings-on at the Minaguchi-ya over the course of 400 years. In it, the Minaguchi-ya is the backdrop for all sorts of characters from Japan`s past. From Tokugawa to Hiroshige to Saigo Takamori. It`s a great way to present Japanese history to the novice, and an entertaining read. While the author readily admits that some of the historical figures may never have stayed there, that fact doesn`t detract from the story. It is still a good panorama of life in Tokugawa and pre-war Japan

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Summary: leisurely stroll through Japan's history
Review: This book is a marvelous summary of Japan's history as seen through the creation and development of one of Japan's most famous inns. Everyone who was anyone stayed here or passed through the town.
In addition, the owners of the inn are presented both as people and as representatives of their class. From Samurai to innkeeper the family's success and problems are summarized within each chapter.
The chapters themselves each depict a particular pivotal period in Japan and how it affected the local community and the country. The author, himself, appears in several chapters as he relates how he discovered the inn and his interest in its history.

Rating:
Summary: Japanese Inn
Review: Truly a superb book! Anyone interested in Japanese culture and its development over the years, will be fascinated by this book. Well written, beautifully structured. A book to be read and reread and a treasured possetion.

Rating:
Summary: Japanese Inn
Review: Truly a superb book! Anyone interested in Japanese culture and its development over the years, will be fascinated by this book. Well written, beautifully structured. A book to be read and reread and a treasured possetion.